- "Men won't follow a woman for long. They're too stupid."
- —Brida[src]
Brida of Dunholm is a main character and later an antagonist in both The Saxon Stories novel series, and The Last Kingdom television series. Brida is the central antagonist of the show, acting as the deuteragonist of the first half of Season 1, an anti-heroine in its second part, an ally in Season 2 and Season 3, the main antagonist of Season 4, one of the two main antagonists of first half of Season 5, and a major antagonist in its the second part.
Like Uhtred, she is Saxon in origin, and is adopted by the Danes after they see the ruins of her village, wiped out by a raiding party from a rival band of Vikings and experience Brida's feisty nature.
Alongside Uhtred, she comes to love the Danes for their free-spirited nature. She and Uhtred become playmates and close friends. When they reach adolescence, they become lovers. Later on in the series, she become's Ragnar's woman, and after he dies, she becomes Uhtred's nemesis.
Biography[]
The Saxon Stories[]
In "The Last Kingdom", along with Uhtred, she learns the art of making charcoal for forging steel, and so survives along with Uhtred when Ragnar and the others are killed in the night-time attack by Kjartan The Cruel. Brida despises the straight-laced, pious Christian Saxons of Alfred's court even more than Uhtred does.
When they both have the opportunity to join Ragnar the Younger, Uhtred decides to return to Alfred to complete his oath-sworn service and Brida stays with the Danes, later becoming lovers with Ragnar.
As of "The Burning Land", Brida hates Uhtred for abandoning the fight against Wessex with Ragnar.
The Last Kingdom[]
Following the Danish’s victory at the Siege of Eoferwic (866), a young Brida is taken prisoner, as well as Uhtred. The next day, they are taken to the battlefield and made to help recover the bodies of the fallen as well as their weapons. Brida and Uhtred are then taken to Leeds in Northumbria to work for Earl Ragnar and his family. Sigrid tells Brida not to spill the water or else she’ll turn the floor to mud. Uhtred is to chop wood. Afterward, they’ll be allowed to play. Later that evening, Brida, Uhtred, and Thyra go into the woods to play. While playing, they are attacked by Sven. He charges towards them and they run further into the woods. Thyra screams for Uhtred’s help, and they come running back to save her. ("Episode 1.1") Many years have passed, and Brida and Uhtred have remained under the custody of Earl Ragnar and Sigrid. That night, she watches the charcoal from the woods. Uhtred joins her. Afterward, he wonders if she ever thinks about her life prior to Ragnar, but she does not. They suddenly hear whispers in the night. They spot Kjartan and Sven leading an army of Danes towards the village. Brida and Uhtred race back to the village to alert Ragnar. They reach the village in time to see Ragnar burn. ("Episode 1.1") Day breaks. Brida and Uhtred watch Kjartan and Sven raid their village for Ragnar’s wealth. Uhtred spots Scallion among the Danes and realizes that his uncle Ælfric is working with the Danes. Brida wants to run to tell the story, but Uhtred sneaks back into the village to kill Scallion. ("Episode 1.1") Brida joins Uhtred in the village after Kjartan and Sven leave. Hidden inside the shambled remains of their home, they recover Ragnar’s riches. By right, it belongs to young Ragnar, but they will spend what they have to in order to stay alive. They must now find a new Lord to serve, but Uhtred refuses. He intends to return to Bebbanburg with Brida at his side. Before long, they arrive at the gates of Bebbanburg. Uhtred reveals himself to Ælfric and throws Scallion’s head on the ground. ("Episode 1.1") Brida and Uhtred are chased by Ælfric and his men into the woods. They lose Uhtred, and he orders his men to find Uhtred and kill him. Brida and Uhtred remain hidden within a ditch until Ælfric. Uhtred intends to kill his uncle and take back what is rightfully his. Uhtred wants to go to Ubba with their story, and with his army, they avenge Ragnar’s death and take back Bebbanburg. ("Episode 1.2") Brida and Uhtred find a nearby village ransacked and destroyed. A man fires an arrow at Uhtred, but he misses, and Brida throws a hatchet in his back. The man reveals they were attacked by Danes for revenge. There’s an uprising north of the village. Word is that a Saxon slave killed his master at a wedding party. Brida and Uhtred realizes that he’s been framed for Ragnar’s death. Brida tells Uhtred that they should’ve never gone to Bebbanburg, but Uhtred believes they did the right thing. ("Episode 1.2") Brida and Uhtred sneak into Burv St Edmunds and kidnap Storri. Uhtred stays behind to wait for Ubba while Brida proceeds with Storri. Uhtred returns and tells Brida that Ubba didn’t believe him and wishes him dead. He finds Storri tied up, completely naked, and on a horse. They send Storri on his way and plan their next course of action. Uhtred isn’t sure what’s left for them. ("Episode 1.2") Brida and Uhtred arrive in Oxford, where Uhtred has a warrior’s sword crafted. Brida then reveals that she binded Storri’s mouth because he placed a curse on her, but she doesn’t reveal exactly what the curse is. Brida admits that he’s right that they can’t go to young Ragnar. But they should wait for him to find them because he will want to know the truth. In the time between, they stay alive, spending many days and nights in Oxford, where Danes rarely pass through. After discovering that men have been asking for them, Brida and Uhtred prepare to leave Oxford. However, they must fight their way out. In doing so, Brida kills one attacker and Uhtred kills at least two others. ("Episode 1.2") Brida advises Uhtred to forget about Bebbanburg, but he insists that he will avenge Ragnar’s death. But he can not conquer it without men. Uhtred proposes they hide out in Wessex. With King Æthelred, they at least stand a chance. Brida and Uhtred arrive in Wessex, where they meet the stares and displeasure of the villagers. There, Uhtred is reunited with Father Beocca. He then introduces him to Brida, his greatest friend. Rather than the king, Beocca wants to introduce them to Alfred, the king’s brother. ("Episode 1.2") Brida and Uhtred meet with Alfred, who has heard of Ragnar’s fall at Uhtred’s hands. Brida explains that the rumors are false and that Kjartan killed Ragnar. Alfred reveals that Kjartan has benefited most from Ragnar’s demise. He has taken his place and is a great lord. And Ubba has sent men to Mercia asking of Uhtred’s whereabouts. Alfred has eyes and ears in each of the kingdom. It is his hope that one day all kingdoms will become one, united under one God and king. Alfred tells them how the Danes have also gathered an army. They are led by Guthrum. Alfred allows Brida and Uhtred to remain in Winchester but he holds Father Beocca responsible for them. ("Episode 1.2") Father Beocca reveals to Uhtred that he is in possession of the charter of Bebbanburg. However, Brida argues the charters have no meaning since the Danes took Northumbria. Uhtred plans to find the Danes in Readingum for new knowledge. He wants to know why they’re settling. Beocca claims their intent is to attack, but Uhtred is convinced and wants to find out for himself. ("Episode 1.2") Brida and Uhtred head out to Readingum. Brida accuses Uhtred of being Alfred’s spy. The next step is to kill for him. Uhtred reminds Brida that if they were to cross paths with Guthrum, he’d kill them, and for that, they owe them Danes nothing. Alfred needs to know about the Danes, and Uhtred wants to earn his trust. ("Episode 1.2") Brida and Uhtred return from Readingum to inform King Æthlred that the Danes have come to attack Winchester, and they’ll be marching in no less than few more days. However, Odda and his younger were under the impression that they were to attack in the spring. Uhtred has come with proof. He tells them to defeat the Danes, Winchester must meet them on the road to Abbendum. However, young Odda and Alfred suspect that it might be a trap. Nevertheless, Alfred takes Uhtred’s advice and they will attack on the road to Abbendum. Lastly, he has Brida and Uhtred taken away and put into cages. ("Episode 1.2") Brida and Uhtred remain locked in a cell. Beocca informs them that Alfred was victorious in their battle against the Danes, and Beocca will see to it that they are released. However, Brida continues to grow more impatient with every moment. She even sarcastically remarks that Uhtred is a hero of Wessex. Brida questions why aren’t the Saxons feasting if they defeated the Danes. The Saxons and their customary traditions are so different from theirs. She refuses to become a Saxon woman. Uhtred assures her that won’t be the case. They’ll simply use Alfred for shelter and wealth. ("Episode 1.3") Alfred apologizes to Brida and Uhtred for locking them up as they were victorious in the battle against the Danes. Uhtred tells Alfred he now wishes to be seen as an Ealdormen. Alfred informs them that the king is dead, and his first act will be to propose peace to the Danes. Brida explains that the Danes will think he is spineless. And so, Alfred will have to convince them otherwise. Beocca tells Uhtred to mind his tongue and show Alfred respect as the future king. Alfred is Uhtred’s way back to Bebbanburg. However, Brida warns Uhtred that any silver he finds under Alfred will be taken by the Danes along with his life. ("Episode 1.3") Brida has grown tired of Uhtred’s submission to the Saxons and goes into the woods, where she makes a mushroom ale to induce psychic visions, where she sees herself on Young Ragnar's Viking ship, sailing at his side. ("Episode 1.3") Brida is found out in the woods by Uhtred and awakened from her sleep. She believes they should leave for Cornwalum, Wales, or Irland. She wants to escape. Brida saw Ragnar’s ship. She wants to leave, and she tells Uhtred to come with her, but Uhtred has already promised Alfred that he will attend the negotiations and advise him. She suspects that Alfred will betray Uhtred. ("Episode 1.3") Brida worries that Uhtred’s year of servitude to the king will turn into much longer. She also discovered that the king offered him a wife, which he turned down. Brida asks what happens when Uhtred finds himself facing Young Ragnar in battle. Uhtred replies that they will fight. The next day, Brida suffers from a painful miscarriage in the woods. Uhtred finds her and they bury the remains, which is a sign of the passing. ("Episode 1.3") Brida has retrieved Young Ragnar’s silver. She tells Uhtred that Young Ragnar is back and that they can return the silver and join his ranks. Brida tries to persuade Uhtred to join her, as he owes Alfred nothing. However, Uhtred tells Brida that he can only become the king of Bebbanburg through Alfred. Young Ragnar arrives and asks Uhtred if he killed his father. Uhtred denies killing their family. He drops his weapon before Young Ragnar and gives him the opportunity to take his revenge if he truly suspects Uhtred of being capable of such betrayal. Young Ragnar is convinced of Uhtred’s innocence and hugs him. Brida is overwhelmed with joy. Uhtred reveals that Kjartan attacked. ("Episode 1.3") Ragnar explains that Kjartan’s story is that the English rose against their father, encouraged by Uhtred. Unfortunately, Kjartan is now a Lord and has three times the men. When they kill him, it’ll have to be strategic. Brida agrees to sail with Ragnar, but Uhtred has sworn to Alfred, and Ragnar urges him to keep his word. However, Uhtred swears that when the time is right, he’ll be with them. He then says goodbye to Brida. ("Episode 1.3") The Danes have overtaken Werham. Uhtred is brought in as one of the ten hostages. Brida joins Young Ragnar and Uhtred, who holds her close. She tells him that she’s with Ragnar now, and he reveals that he’s married. ("Episode 1.4") Uhtred celebrates with Brida and Young Ragnar. Spending the night with them; it’s the most fun he’s had in a long time. Admittedly, Uhtred misses them both. Uhtred then reveals that Mildrith carries his child and Alfred ordered his marriage to her. Brida suspects that Uhtred is a spy, and he admits that he, in fact, is. At the first sign of Ubba, he is to escape. Young Ragnar rejoins them, and he makes sure that it’s no problem that he is now with Brida. Uhtred assures him that it isn’t. Brida then tells Ragnar how Uhtred is expecting a child and how he intends to go back to his wife. However, he promises that he will avenge their father. Much like Brida, Young Ragnar is upset that Uhtred didn’t come with him all those months ago. ("Episode 1.4") With the arrival of Ubba, Guthrum orders his men to kill the hostages except for Uhtred, who fights his way out. However, Uhtred finds himself surrounded. Fortunately, Young Ragnar and Brida come to his aid. Young Ragnar tells Guthrum that to kill Uhtred, they’ll have to kill him first. Guthrum concedes and orders for Uhtred to be released. Uhtred hugs Ragnar and Brida goodbye before leaving. ("Episode 1.4") Brida, Ragnar, and Guthrum invade Winchester. She catches Uhtred as he tries to escape. Uhtred comes towards her, and she raises her axe. He wonders why she’s behaving like this towards him, but she doesn’t respond. She reveals that Ragnar is almost ready to travel north to kill Kjartan. She tells him that the guards at the gate will be drunk and his way will be clear. Still, Brida is distant. She tells Uhtred that she’ll tell Ragnar that he was here and that he left. ("Episode 1.7") Brida, Guthrum, and Young Ragnar raid Alfred’s Reading Room after hearing of his survival in the swampland. Guthrum is particularly fascinated with Alfred’s writing, but he wonders what it all means. Guthrum refers to it as magic and words without sounds. Young Ragnar suggests that they go looking for Alfred, but Guthrum says that only a fool would march an army into swampland. ("Episode 1.7") Brida, Guthrum, Young Ragnar, and Skorpa lead an army of Danes to the battlefield, where the Saxons are chanting "no mercy." Brida tells Ragnar that should he meet Uhtred in battle, there can be no doubt. It appears Wulfhere has joined them. Brida and Ragnar are later taken in as prisoners of war, and Guthrum is baptized. ("Episode 1.8") |
Alfred has Brida and Ragnar brought before him. They still have men in Northumbria. Most have settled but they’re still his to call upon. He also has men in East Anglia with Guthrum, who Alfred informs them is now named Æthelstan. In parts of the North, Saxon, Dane and Briton now live side by side. Alfred wants to expand that. In order for the land and trade to flourish, there must be peace. ("Episode 2.1") Hild rides to Winchester and reports to Odda and King Alfred that Uhtred has been taken. However, Alfred doesn’t believe that Uhtred can be saved. Odda suggests releasing Ragnar and Brida to find Uhtred. ("Episode 2.2") Ragnar kisses Brida goodbye as she leaves on a horseback to meet with the remaining of their Danish army. Ragnar arrives with Uhtred. Brida explains that their men aren’t willing to fight the brothers for someone like Guthred. However, they’ll need his army to take Dunholm. Brida suggests killing the Northmen, then Guthred, thus allowing them to take Eoferwic. However, all Ragnar wants is his sister and Kjartan’s death. Given that the Northmen have an open camp, Finan suggests they only kill Sigefrid and Erik, rather than the brothers and their men. He suggests killing them while they’re sleeping. ("Episode 2.4") They proceed to find Sigefrid and Erik’s camp, where Uhtred, Finan, and Steapa go in alone. They take out three guards. Uhtred then enters Sigefrid’s tent, cuts off Sigefrid's hand and forces the brothers to leave the land. ("Episode 2.4") After gathering an army, they lead an army of men to Dunholm. Brida and Ragnar take a group of men down the path. Brida and Ragnar lead their army to the front gate. They form a shield wall and ram the front gates until they gain access. They eventually force Kjartan to retreat and Ragnar challenges him to a fight to the death. Ragnar disarms Kjartan and pins his arm to the ground with his sword. He then kicks Kjartan’s sword out of his hand so that he doesn’t go to Valhalla. Ragnar finally kills Kjartan. However, after doing so, he continues to stab his lifeless body repeatedly. Even his own comrades watch in disbelief. Uhtred has to pull Ragnar off of Kjartan’s body. Afterward, Ragnar and Brida settle down in Dunholm. ("Episode 2.4") |
Brida and Cnut, spot a group of Saxons and Danes travelling. They’re protecting the cart and the man that rides on it. Cnut then remarks how fortunate his cousin Ragnar is to have a woman to both love and fight. He wonders why she allows him to shame her. Brida doesn't answer, she simply orders Cnut to allow the men to continue on their path undisturbed. Brida then finds Uhtred, Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth travelling to Dunholm. ("Episode 3.2") Jackdaw stands guard of Skade’s cell. When asked if she was any trouble, Jackdaw claims that Skade showed him her breast. Skade claims to be a seer, but Brida doesn’t see any runes. Skade demands to see Uhtred or else she will curse Brida, who stakes a Nithstong in the ground to block Skade’s power. Skade swears that she will kill Brida for this. ("Episode 3.2") Brida informs Uhtred of Skade’s power. She believes that Uhtred could wield it. Either he takes her as his woman or kill her. Brida will ask a seer more powerful than Skade on how to kill her. Uhtred takes Brida’s hand and remembers the very first time they met. On the steps of the great hall of Eoferwic. Brida tells Uhtred that much like him, she has been cursed and cannot have children. Uhtred tells Brida that he is sorry for her. If Uhtred is to truly be a Dane, she tells him that he must undo the past and destroy Alfred. ("Episode 3.2") Brida discovers that Uhtred is planning on leaving to rescue Æthelflæd. Brida calls Uhtred a whore to the crown of Alfred. Ragnar reminds Uhtred that he gave his word and he is going back on it by leaving them. And for this, Ragnar takes back his name from Uhtred. He is no longer Uhtred Ragnarson. Thyra pleads with him to no do this, but Ragnar’s decision is final. ("Episode 3.3") Bloodhair challenges Uhtred to a fight to the death with Skade as the reward. Brida roots for Bloodhair to kill Uhtred while Ragnar watches in silence, even as Bloodhair’s men cheat by depriving Uhtred a weapon. Uhtred disarms Bloodhair and is moments away from killing him before Ragnar intervenes and calls an end to the battle. Ragnar tells Uhtred to take Skade and leave. Skade remarks that Uhtred has defeated Bloodhair twice and she now belongs to him. Brida launches a spear in Uhtred’s direction and tells him that next time, she won’t miss. ("Episode 3.4") Ragnar leads Brida, Cnut, Bloodhair, Æthelwold, and the great army to Wessex. They set up camp and Cnut tells Brida that Ragnar belittles her, as he continues to hump other women. She replies that he’s plowing a new field in the hope of sowing the seed of another son. Cnut would like to be with her, however, he will leave because she asked him to. Later, Ragnar goes to hump another woman. He promises Brida that this is the last time, as he only wants one more son. ("Episode 3.4") Jackdaw returns to camp to report to Brida, Cnut, and Bloodhair that Alfred is dead. Brida rushes to inform Ragnar but discovers him dead in his tent. She cries over his body. She puts her blade in his hand and tells him to hold it but he is long gone. Cnut enters Ragnar’s tent and demands to know the man responsible. Brida exits the tent, suspecting that it was someone at the camp who took his life. When Bloodhair accuses Brida of killing Ragnar, she charges at him, but he knocks her to the ground. Despite Ragnar’s death, Cnut wants to go on. He and Bloodhair will march. Æthelwold watches silently as this unfolds. He gives his condolences to Brida. ("Episode 3.5") Brida and Cnut bury Ragnar. Some of his men believe this to be a sign. To die without his sword means they will lose the battle. Cnut states that Ragnar’s men are now Brida’s men, and together, they could lead. Brida fears that without Ragnar, they shall become separate tribes. Brida suspects that it was either Cnut or Bloodhair that killed him, but Cnut insists that Ragnar was killed by his whore. Brida hands Ragnar his sword and proceeds to bury him with rocks. ("Episode 3.5") Brida finds Uhtred and informs him that Ragnar is dead. He doesn’t feast in Valhalla. Instead, he lies under a pile of stone. There was no honor in his death, and she blames Uhtred for leaving him. He chose Saxons over them, and so Brida will let him live with knowing that he’s the reason Ragnar is dead. ("Episode 3.5") Uhtred visits Ragnar’s grave, where Brida awaits him. She claims that Ragnar calls to her in her dreams, from Niflheim. Asking to help him cross from Hel to Valhalla. She puts out the fire, reasoning that Niflheim is much colder than they will ever be. So, if Ragnar suffers, then so shall they. While Brida goes to sleep, Uhtred goes over to Ragnar’s grave and asks for his strength, heart, and wisdom. He then gives Ragnar his necklace. ("Episode 3.6") Uhtred and Brida awaken the following morning and journey to Legaceaster to meet with the seer, Storri, in hopes of helping Ragnar escape Niflheim. They take cover after being attacked by Danes. They’ve come on Cnut’s behalf to kill Uhtred. Brida tells the archer to leave and as Uhtred is under her protection. However, when she returns, Cnut can have her men. ("Episode 3.6") It’s during their journey that Uhtred reveals to Brida that the reason for his second oath to Alfred was to save Ragnar’s life. She kisses him on the cheek and thanks him both for herself and Ragnar. They arrive in Salhford in search of Storri. They remain hidden and watch as Storri performs a ritual and reveals to a man that while his wife will bear many children, none will be born living. Uhtred and Brida then follow Storri to his cave. All they want is his knowledge. He recalls Brida and her shoving a branch up his ass. Uhtred insists that they mean him no harm and will pay for information. They reveal that Ragnar is stuck in the cold of Niflheim and needs to crossover to Valhalla. He agrees to help them for the right price. However, he goes into the back and escapes out the window, though Brida circles around and catches him before he can get away. He presumes that his curse worked, which Brida admits that it did. It cost her a family and her husband. He offers to make amends and help her reach Ragnar. ("Episode 3.6") Uhtred and Brida take Storri back inside and force him to help them save Ragnar. Storri prays to the Goddess Hel and asks her to surrender Ragnar’s soul in exchange for the man that killed him. They must wet the blade with Ragnar’s blood and with that blade, kill the man who sent him to Hel. Only that way will Ragnar be free to enter Valhalla. While Ragnar is dead, they can use Thyra, as they share the same blood. Lastly, Uhtred asks how to kill a curse. Before he can answer, Brida sneaks up from behind and strangles the life from Storri, breaking her curse. She reveals to Uhtred that the only way to break a curse is to kill the sorcerer without breaking the skin or shedding a drop of blood. Uhtred will either have to do the same with Skade or make her his woman. Brida reveals that Storri cursed her many years ago and it’s because of him that she couldn’t have a family. ("Episode 3.6") Uhtred wonders why Brida didn’t act sooner. She replies that it’s because she was a warrior before all else. Also because she’s a fool. She’s known how to kill a curse for a while but chose not to tell Uhtred because she knew he wouldn’t stay. So, she wanted to see him suffer. Brida tells Uhtred that she no longer loves him, but he knows that they are one and that what she speaks isn’t true. From the moment he took her hand in the great hall of Eoferwic, they’ve been bound, as love is immortal. Uhtred will kill the curse and then go to Thyra for her blood. And Brida will discover who killed Ragnar, and they will see to it that he answer for his actions. ("Episode 3.6") Brida tells Cnut, Bloodhair, and Hæsten that Skade is trouble and that they should do away with her. Skade asks Sihtric what Uhtred thinks of her. He replies that Uhtred doesn’t know whether to kill her or hump her. Because she’s poison. Cnut follows her. He asks Brida when will her men become their men. He doesn’t care about the seer or the others. And so, Brida invites him into her tent. Later, Offa returns to the Dane’s camp and reports that Uhtred will come for them all as a shadow walker and they all will die as Ragnar died. Afterward, she watches as Hæsten and Bloodhair battle for Skade. The fight ends with Skade killing Bloodhair. ("Episode 3.7") Hunstanton, East Anglia; Cnut tells Brida to join him, however, all she can think about is how he sent Æthelwold to kill Uhtred. Cnut explains that he actually sent Æthelwold to raise a Saxon army and sow unrest. She informs Cnut that men are claiming that Æthelwold killed Ragnar. Cnut claims that he doesn’t know, but Æthelwold was in fear of Ragnar. Brida declares that Æthelwold is to be protected in battle because he is hers to kill. ("Episode 3.9") Hæsten announces to Cnut and Brida that Alfred is dead. Dagfinn reassures the, that it’s true this time. Many mourn the death of Alfred and the time for war is near. Brida looks to Cnut and makes him swear to the gods that it was Æthelwold who killed Ragnar. Cnut swears. And so, Brida declares that he must not fall in battle. Æthelwold cannot fall to any sword. Brida tells Jackdaw to follow the spies that Cnut sends out in search of the Saxon camps. She wants him to deliver Uhtred a message; Æthelwold killed Ragnar. ("Episode 3.10") Brida, Cnut, Hæsten, and Æthelwold lead their army into the woodlands, where they find their spies hanging from trees. Suddenly, they are ambushed by the Wessex and Mercian army. Uhtred and Brida simultaneously notice Æthelwold on the battlefield and charge towards him. However, Æthelwold manages to escape on a horse as Uhtred is attacked by a Dane. Fortunately, Brida saves him from slaughter. Uhtred steals a horse and goes chasing after Æthelwold. Brida eventually catches up to Uhtred just after he kills Æthelwold. A ray of sun suddenly shines down. Brida believes it to be a bridge for Ragnar to cross over into Valhalla. ("Episode 3.10") |
East Anglia; Young Cnut and his younger brother Esgar run through the woods, taking cover behind trees. Cnut is captured by Brida, who holds a knife at his throat and asks if he wants her to show him mercy. He nods his head yes. She reminds him that mercy is for Christians and the only appropriate action when captured by the enemy is to take his own life. They are joined by Cnut, who tells Brida that the boys must like her. The women of East Anglia are shipped off to the settlements for the winter. They must be hidden away while the men go to war. Cnut warns them that if any of them are caught humping a Saxon, they will be executed on their return. ("Episode 4.1") Hæsten informs Cnut and Brida that he met with Eardwulf and told him that they were leaving for Irland. With their plan in motion, they’ll attack Mercia while their backs are turned. They’ll sail to the estuary before dawn, head upstream and keep the boats apart to avoid any scouts. When they reach Mercia, they’ll assault Aegelesburg in two bands and Cnut will kill King Edward. Brida explains that they’ll kill Æthelred as well. Wessex is honor-bound to come to Mercia's aid. So, they’ll lure out Edward from behind his walls and fight on their terms and take the country. Hæsten questions how Cnut managed to tame Brida. He replies that he treated her with respect and gave her love. ("Episode 4.1") Tetsworth, Mercia; Brida, Hæsten, and Cnut leade their army into Tetsworth; the Kingdom of Mercia. They’ll rest there for the night and attack at first light. Catch the Mercians sleeping in their beds. Hæsten asks how far Aegelesburg is. "Close enough to surprise them." Brida replies. And with that said, Hæsten plans to part ways. He has no interest in war; only women and silver. Brida warns Hæsten that he’ll miss a great gathering of armies. Edward is honor-bound to defend the land of his sister and mother. Aethelred's death will force swift retaliation. They will ride into Mercia in a fury and will force Mercia to a battle place where they won’t have the advantage. Cnut calls young Cnut and Esgar over. He wants them to leave with Hæsten, who will take them north until the campaign is over. Hæsten wonders how Cnut was able to draw Brida to him. She replies they made a bond in blood. Hæsten then reveals that he knows Brida is pregnant with Cnut’s child. He can tell by her breasts. Brida threatens to cut off Hæsten’s balls and feed them to him if he tells Cnut. Cnut then calls Brida over as he rallies the men. He tells them to rest well because at day break, they’ll strike and Mercia will burn. ("Episode 4.2") Avlesburv, Mercia; Just as planned, Cnut and Brida lead an army into Avlesburv the following morning, where they slaughter the unsuspecting Mercians. They search for Æthelred but he is nowhere to be found. ("Episode 4.2") Brida instructs the men to send scouts and scavenge for food. She finds Cnut in Æthelred’s room. Cnut asks if she's seen the Ealdormen, who he tortured. And while they didn't find Æthelred, they make the most of their time together; the two of them have sex on King Æthelred’s bed. ("Episode 4.2") Jackdaw informs Cnut and Brida that they found Æthelred. He’s in East Anglia, where he’s attacked farms and killed many Danish settlers. Jackdaw surmises that they’ve been outwitted. However, Brida realizes that this is their own doing. Æthelred thought they were in Irland, that there would be no reprisals. Cnut decides to continue their efforts. Æthelred has left his people undefended, making them easier to slaughter, which will bring King Edward. ("Episode 4.2") Mercia; Brida rubs her stomach, acknowledging the fact that Cnut’s child grows inside of her, though she has yet to tell him. She finds Cnut and asks if he's heard anything of the Saxon armies, but he hasn't. And so Cnut is willing to burn every village in Mercia until Edward has no choice but to fight. Brida tells Cnut that his sons should be here to see this, but Hæsten will keep them safe. Cnut is intent on slaughtering Edward and Æthelred’s armies. And when the kings are dead, Cnut promises that he and Brida will sit on the throne. She reminds Cnut that they do this in Ragnar’s memory. ("Episode 4.3") Brida, Cnut, Jackdaw, and Bjorgulf learn that the lady Æthelflæd has returned to Mercia. If she’s alone, the rest of the Saxons won’t be far behind. If they manage to capture her, then they will have the upper hand. Cnut tasks Bjorgulf with bringing her back. ("Episode 4.3") Cnut and Brida command their soldiers to have their defences built by sunset. Just as Brida is about to tell him something, Bjorgulf returns, but without Æthelflæd. Bjorgulf reveals that Uhtred was in Aegelesburg with Cnut’s sons, and he beheaded young Cnut. Cnut grabs Jackdaw’s bludgeons Bjorgulf with it. He commands that Uhtred be brought in immediately. Brida tries to remind him of their actual goal, but Cnut is blinded with rage. Cnut orders Jackdaw to prepare the men to march and send men ahead to follow them. ("Episode 4.4") Jackdaw reports to Cnut and Brida that Uhtred is waiting at Tettenhall. Cnut says that he will have his revenge and he and his men ride out. ("Episode 4.4") Tettenhall, Mercia; Cnut, Brida, Jackdaw, and the Dane army arrive in Tettenhall. Brida notes that something isn’t right and orders them to fallback, but Cnut leads his men forward, right into Uhtred’s trap; a large, camouflaged ditch. As the Danes try to recover, Uhtred and Æthelflæd leas their army forward. Brida is knocked off her horse, but she manages to take out two enemies in the same breath. ("Episode 4.4") Tettenhall woods, Mercia; Cnut follows Uhtred into the woods and they fight. Cnut demands to know why Uhtred killed his first born. Uhtred claims it was revenge for Ragnar. Brida arrives as the two fight for control, though she doesn’t intervene. Cnut claims that Ragnar was weak and needed him to die, while his son was innocent. Unbeknownst to Cnut, Brida has overheard him admit to killing her former lover. As Uhtred places him in a chokehold, he tells Brida to give him his seax. She slowly picks up his blade and Uhtred lets Cnut go. She confronts him for sending Æthelwold to kill Ragnar and stabs him with his own sword. As Cnut kneels there with his sword in his chest, gasping for air, Uhtred reveals that both of Cnut’s boys are alive just before he dies from his wounds. ("Episode 4.4") Brida finds herself surrounded by the Welsh as they take in Dane prisoners. She asks Uhtred to spare her and send her to Valhalla. She refuses to be a slave, which is a fate worse than death. Brida simply wants to be with Ragnar. She pleads with Uhtred to kill her, but they take her in as a prisoner. ("Episode 4.4") Deheubarth, Wealas; Brida works as a slave for the Welsh. King Hywel approaches. He refers to her as the lady warrior and can’t believe men died to defeat her. He raises his sword as if to kill her, but decides against it. He doesn’t want to give her the satisfaction. ("Episode 4.6") King Hywel and the Welsh feast and celebrate. Rhodri has Brida bound by chains like an animal. Now that the war is over, Hywel is going on a pilgrimage and he wants Rhodri to rule in his absence. ("Episode 4.6") Rhodri pulls Brida’s chain and tells her to come over. He shows her a blade, claiming it belonged to Cnut, but Brida knows that it doesn’t. Rhodri then orders for her to be thrown into the pit. King Hywel tells Rhodri to have some grace in victory. They will melt down all their silver and pay every craftsman in the country to finish the job that King Offa of Mercia started centuries ago. A barrier between them and the Saxons. ("Episode 4.6") A man soaked in blood and with his ear nearly torn off enters the hall and reveals to Rhodri that he was attacked by Danes. They have landed west of Wealas. They come from Irland. They are intent on slaughter. And Rhodri’s head is the first they will take. Brida watches this unfold from the pit. ("Episode 4.6") Rhodri demands to know why the Danes haven’t been slaughtered. He does not want this news to reach his brother while he’s on pilgrimage. Rhodri orders his men to keep their defeats secret. Brida chuckles from within the pit. Brida is weakened and dehydrated. Rhodri celebrates after a victory against the Danes. He and two of his men then proceed to pee on Brida, forcing her to cower in the corner. ("Episode 4.7") Brida awakens to hear yelling in the distance. She manages to pull herself up on her feet. She realizes that the Danes have invaded Wales. Sigtryggr orders his men to kill anyone who looks like they can’t work. They can sell the others as slaves. Rhodri tries to attack, but he is greatly outnumbered and doesn’t fare well. They’ve come looking for Brida. Rhodri claims they killed her, but Brida shouts out from beneath the pit that she's very much alive. ("Episode 4.7") Brida is carried before Sigtryggr. He wants to be certain that she is in fact Brida. As proof, she states that she fought with Guthrum and followed Ragnar. However, he still doesn’t believe her. He realizes she’s pregnant and asks who the father is. Brida reveals that Cnut is the father. Sigtryggr then introduces himself to Brida as Cnut’s cousin. Brida claims she belongs to no man and is a warrior alone. He wants Brida to prove who she is and kicks a sword towards her. Brida lifts the sword and holds it to Rhodri. She tells him to prepare to be broken as he tried to do her. She then puts the collar on Rhodri’s neck and throws him in the pit. ("Episode 4.7") Sigtryggr asks Brida how Cnut fell. She reveals it was mainly by his betrayal. He murdered the man she loved and blamed another. Sigtryggr believes that he died with dishonor if he allows his woman to be enslaved. She replies that her enslavement was the doing of Uhtred the Dane Slayer. And it’s for this that Brida will have her revenge. Sigtryggr is familiar with the Dane Slayer and his reputation. He questions why Cnut never came when they signaled for help. Brida claims they had their own battles. She then reveals that the greatest riches are in Wessex. ("Episode 4.7") Llangadog, Wealas; Brida leads the Danes into Llangadog. They murder the Welsh villagers, steal their valuables, and burn their home. Brida watches as a villager runs up the hill, but doesn't bother to follow her. ("Episode 4.8") Deheubarth, Wealas; Brida returns from Llangadog. When Sigtryggr asks where the women are, Brida claims they fought back. She proposes they invade Wessex and Mercia. Edward and Uhtred slaughtered their kin, and for that, Brida wants revenge. Brida explains that the Saxons are weak now after Tettenhall and vulnerable. However, Sigtryggr explains that his men won’t be willing to fight the Saxons when they already have all they need in Wealas. So, Brida leaves to enact her own revenge, taking five of Sigtryggr’s men with her. ("Episode 4.8") Before leaving Wales, Brida drags Rhodri out the pit and walks him around, asking the other Danes if any of them would like her dog. She shortens his chain and kicks him into the pit, hanging him in the process. ("Episode 4.8") Wealas woods; Eardwulf finds himself cornered by Brida and the Danes. He heard there were Danes in Wealas and was coming to speak to them. He claims to have something of value to share with them, but before he can reveal what he has to say, he is knocked unconscious. Eardwulf awakens tied to a tree. He remembers Brida from the battle of Tettenhall and how she was humiliated. However, Eardwulf knows how to defeat Edward. All he asks that Brida listen to what he has to say. ("Episode 4.8") Deheubarth, Wealas; Brida returns to Wealas with Eardwulf and tells Sigtryggr that he will help them take Winchester without a single drop of Danish blood spilled. Eardwulf reveals to Brida, Sigtryggr, and the Danes that after Tettenhall, Edward believes the Danes no longer hold a threat. He’s taken his army to Aegelesburg, leaving Winchester undefended. Only a handful of soldiers remain there. Brida assures Sigtryggr that an attack on Winchester is worth the risk. And so, the Danes plan to leave for Winchester as soon as possible. ("Episode 4.8") Winchester, Wessex; Brida, Sigtryggr, Eardwulf, and the Danes attack Winchester. They kill many men and take Æthelhelm, Ælflæd, and Ælfweard captive. They ask if he would like to fight or yield. Lord Æthelhelm chooses to yield, and Sigtryggr orders his men to kill the Wessex Guards regardless. He then orders for Æthelhelm, Ælflæd, and Ælfweard to be locked up. Eardwulf informs Sigtryggr that they will have the town soon enough. ("Episode 4.9") Ælswith, Æthelstan, Stiorra, Æthelhelm, Ælflæd, and Ælfweard are taken to Brida, Sigtryggr, and Eardwulf. Ælswith warns them that her son will burn them all to the ground before he concedes any of Wessex land. As Ælswith is being taken away, she claims that Stiorra and Æthelstan are Dane slaves and that if Brida values her people, she would take care of them. Brida determines that Stiorra is at least half Dane. However, Eardwulf then reveals that she’s in fact Uhtred’s daughter. Brida orders her men to find Uhtred and send him Stiorra’s head, but Sigtryggr takes Stiorra with him instead. ("Episode 4.9") Brida orders the Danes to dig up the bodies of dead Wessex men. Eardwulf asks her to stop, as it is clear sacrilege. He fought alongside some of the men. However, that is no concern of hers. She tells Eardwulf that he doesn’t get to decide which Saxons he betrays. ("Episode 4.9") Sigtryggr gathers his men and brings Eardwulf out before them. He reveals to Brida that Eardwulf works to his own plan and they need to be of one mind. Hæsten jokingly tells Eardwulf that Sigtryggr is playing with him and will show mercy. Sigtryggr then makes a speech about how when they fight, they work as one to achieve a common goal. And at all times, they are united and never fight out of anger as this is the way of the old generation. He then turns his attention to Eardwulf, who works for his own desires. Eadith screams out from the crowd for them to have mercy. However, Eardwulf tells them to ignore her as she’s only a whore he once knew. Brida questions how Sigtryggr can speak so frivolously against the greatest of their kind who has ever walked the land. To which Sigtryggr retorts they’d still be there if they were truly so great. Eardwulf is then executed by the Danes. ("Episode 4.9") Edward and the Wessex Guard arrive and charge towards the kingdom, but the gates are shut before they can enter. Edward’s strategy is foolish, and he inevitably falls back as his men are killed. Brida and Sigtryggr watch as they retreat. Edward warns them that soon they will be surrounded and massacred if they don’t surrender. Edward sends his men to attack. ("Episode 4.9") Winchester has been under siege for 30 days. Brida and Hæsten watch as the Guards near. Cenric approaches the kingdom to send a message of intent. Either they leave the town or the Wessex army will burn it down. Brida isn’t interested and shoots Cenric with an arrow, killing him. Brida and Hæsten then enter the Reading Room with plans to kill Stiorra as Edward is threatening to burn the kingdom. However, Sigtryggr won’t allow for it. Instead, he tells Hæsten to dampen the roofs with clay and water to protect it from catching fire. Sigtryggr will personally select a hostage, but not Stiorra. ("Episode 4.10") Ælswith, Æthelhelm, and Ælflæd are escorted out their prison and taken to Brida and Sigtryggr. He reveals that Edward couldn’t choose between his sons, and he has given them Uhtred in his place. Uhtred is surprised to see that Brida is pregnant, as he did not know when he allowed her to be captured by the Welsh. She orders for Uhtred to be tied to the crucifix in the marketplace. However, Sigtryggr wants Uhtred taken to the hall first. He assures Brida she will have Uhtred when he’s done. Lastly, he has the captives taken to the chapel and fed. ("Episode 4.10") Brida catches Hæsten eavesdropping on Sigtryggr and Uhtred's conversation. Hæsten reveals that Sigtryggr seeks a truce, which means better for them all. However, Brida sees this as a betrayal. Brida takes Uhtred’s sword and throws it over the kingdom’s walls. ("Episode 4.10") The Wessex and Mercian armies breach the front gate to Winchester. Where Brida and the Danes await. Uhtred and Sigtryggr reach the courtyard, where the battle has erupted. Uhtred tells Edward to stand down. He does so after some convincing, as does Sigtryggr. ("Episode 4.10") After the war is called off, Brida attacks Uhtred, but he refuses to kill Brida or her child. Brida states that it’s not Cnut’s child, but hers alone. And he will be loyal to her like no man ever before. She will breed to him a hate of all Saxons. Uhtred disarms Brida and tells her that she will be killed if she continues to fight, but Brida isn’t afraid to die. She tells Uhtred to either kill her, or she won’t stop until she’s his undoing. Uhtred spares Brida and tells her to leave while she can. Wessex; Brida leaves Winchester gives birth under a tree in a field. ("Episode 4.10") |
After being severely wounded in battle and possibly on the verge of death, Uhtred experiences a vision of Valhalla where he sees Brida sitting at the table with Ragnar and many others that he's lost over the years.
Killed Victims[]
This list shows the victims Brida has killed:
The Last Kingdom[] |
The Saxon Stories[]
|
Battle Participation[]
This list shows the battles Brida has participated in:
The Last Kingdom[] |
The Saxon Stories[]
|
Appearances[]
The Saxon Stories[]
| Books | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Saxon Stories | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
The Last Kingdom[]
| Episodes | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||||
| Season 2 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |||||||
| Season 3 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Season 4 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Season 5 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Seven Kings Must Die | ✔ |
Memorable Quotes[]
- "Not everybody enjoys a fool."
- —Brida[src]
- "If you want wealth, you take it. You can't ignore what's true."
- —Brida[src]
Trivia[]
- In the novel series, Brida is from East Anglia whilst in the television series, she is from Northumbria.
- Assuming she was similar in age with Uhtred, then when she was killed in "Warriors of the Storm", she was either nearing or she was already in her 60s.
- Brida converted religions, she was born a Christian but converted to paganism after being adopted by Earl Ragnar.
- Brida was a noble; she married Earl Ragnar who captured Dunholm and became lord there, and after his death, she succeeded him as the Lady of Dunholm.